'Breast in Show' raises money for mammograms
Advanced Medical Imaging fundraiser underwrites screening for the uninsured and under-insured
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According to breastcancer.org every year, breast cancer accounts for about 30 percent of all new cancer cases in U.S. women. One of the main tools used for early detection of breast cancer is a mammogram. For women who are not insured or under-insured, this can mean financial hardship just to get the preventive care needed for this insidious disease.
Employees at Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI), a local diagnostic imaging firm that provides mammography services, wanted to do something to alleviate the financial burden associated with getting a mammogram for those who cannot afford it. The company decided to hold an annual, themed event to raise the needed funds. Thus "Breast In Show" was born.
For the event, individuals, organizations, and businesses put together baskets with a bra as a centerpiece. The businesses could choose any theme it wanted, from “Back to the Future” to a “Barbie-” themed bra.
Amanda Beasley, Practice Liaison at AMI stated, "We had to do discussions with our corporate legal team and make sure because we are a for-profit business. But we wanted to do a non-profit event and help the community."
AMI set up a separate account just for the event proceeds, modeling the event after a similar one at the corporation's Illinois location that was held virtually through Facebook. The Kokomo location's senior director allowed AMI Kokomo to hold a live event instead.
"Kokomo is so community-oriented, we love to do events,” said Beasley. “So, we found a venue in town, had people get dressed up and come out and have a good time, and raised money for a good cause."
The 2023 Breast in Show’s theme was, "Back to the 80s Prom Night." This was the second Breast in Show event the group had held, and it sold out early with more than 200 people showing up dressed in their best 1980s outfits.
The centerpiece of the event was the Survivor's Bra which honors AMI employees who have been diagnosed and survived breast cancer. This bra is returned after the auction to be displayed the lobby of AMI as a "conversation piece" to promote the program. For the 2023 event, Dr. Melanie Bozard was the highest bidder for the Survivor Bra at $2,700.
Beasley noted that AMI can only help with mammograms, not any other diagnostic tests for breast cancer. A general screening mammogram does not need a referral from a doctor in the state of Indiana due to a recent change in the law.
"We just need to know what doctor to send the results to," she said. "If you have never had a screening mammogram and you are over 40, having no issues with pain or lumps, you can just call or email. Sometimes we have walk-in availability with mammograms depending on the time of year. We don't do any income eligibility. Whatever your story may be, we will get the process going."
"Breast in Show" is already booked to be held at the Legacy Barn on Sept. 20, 2024. Those interested in donating to AMI's fund to help women who are uninsured or underinsured with mammograms, call 765-454-9729 and ask for Scott.